My life has changed completely since I became a father. I have never had one and my turn came to be one. With the news came intense emotions, and a storm of thoughts. In this chaos of the unknown, I found inspiration and help through different ways and people. And to this has been the reason to interview Ronald Epps Jr, 26, from Philadelphia, to share some aspects of his fatherhood journey with all of us. His words will make you empathetic and be compassionate with working parents everywhere.
* This is an interview extract. Find out the full version in the Spring Summer 2019 Issue 2 *
How did you find out that you were going to become a father? Was it something planned or a surprise?
I found out I was going to be a father after getting a phone call from my wife whilst working for Old Navy in San Francisco. I had to finish work, so I had to get off the phone, but I remember just being so hyped, running around the studio telling everyone I was going to be a dad! It was definitely planned.
Since you found out until the BIG day when you met your little ones for the first time, how did you evolve as a man to become the best father you can possibly be?
I believe I was already very prepared for fatherhood even before I found out. Between me and my wife we have so many kids in our family. We practically helped to raise our younger siblings which created my love for children. I worked hard to make sure my children had everything from financial security to a stress-free home.
Which values and principles do you consider most important to transmit to your child?
Respect, Self-respect, financial literacy and the love of GOD!
From the day you met your baby, did your perspective on modelling change?
I was overjoyed with modeling. It’s such a blessing to be able to take care of my family doing something I love. Being able to do some of my photoshoots with my children makes me even more grateful for my career.
What gives you the strength to keep pursuing your model career knowing you will miss parts of the life of your child because of it?
Being a model has given me a platform to change the world in a way I never thought I would be able to. Yes, I miss my kids and wife when I travel for work, but I must see the bigger picture. And the bigger picture is that I’m working for my kids so that they never have to go through the problems financially or socially that I had growing up.
Where would you like to see yourself and your child in the near future?
Growing up I went to a school that was really into theater. I would love in 2019 to book my first acting job and really start to transition into acting. I’m trying to find my way in this world and how I can really make a difference for the better. As far as my children are concerned I want them to try everything under the sun from soccer to painting to astronomy until they find what they really love!
Read Ronald's Interview at Spring Summer 2019 - Issue 2. Get your copy here.
Words and interview by Marc Lüloh.
Photographed by Nick Blumenthal. Styled by Andy Durán.
Grooming by Laila Hayani using MDNA Skin and Givenchy.
Full looks by Carlos Campos. Sneakers by Reebok
